Study activity model
Study activity model
University programmes in Denmark are full-time degree programmes; this means that students must spend approximately 43 hours each week on their studies.
In order to show the students what activities are included in their programmes, the university developed a model of student activity that divides study activities into three categories based on the AAU learning model for problem-based project work: teaching, problem-based project work and individual study activities.
Teaching includes activities primarily related to discipline orientation and is organised by teaching staff, such as lectures, seminars or lab exercises.
Problem-based project work includes activities associated with problem orientation organised by either the lecturer or the students. Problem-oriented activities organised by the lecturer may consist of supervision, workshops or seminars. Problem-oriented activities organised by the students may include the preparation of the project report or group meetings.
Individual study activities include activities related to the discipline orientation and are organised by the individual students in preparation for teaching activities, such as writing or preparing for exams and tests.
The various study activities, as indicated by the square boxes in the model, are associated with the two dimensions of the model: academic competence (problem orientation/discipline orientation) and organisation (organised by lecturers/organised by students).
The dimensions of the model are not mutually exclusive. A study activity may well be both problem- and discipline-oriented such as exercises and case-based work, and an activity may be partly organised by a lecturer and partly by the students, such as contacts to external partners and workshops.
Development of the AAU study activity model
The AAU study activity model was developed in a working group which was set up by the Strategic Council for Education and consisted of representatives from all faculties.
More specifically, the working group consisted of vice deans for education, heads of department, heads of studies, study board chairs and students.
The model underwent a period of pilot testing in selected degree programmes at AAU before it was adopted by the Strategic Council for Education.
The overall categories and dimensions of the study activity model are fixed, but the specific study activities must be adapted to conditions in the individual programme. The examples in the model are not exhaustive; each programme can supplement with relevant types of study activities.
Download the study activity model
You can download the AAU study activity model in both English and Danish via the links below.
Study activity model (pdf)Studieaktivitetsmodellen (pdf)Applying the study activity model
There are two ways in which the study activity model may be applied: for engaging in dialogue with and matching the expectations of students and for organising courses, semesters and programmes.
Follow the links below to learn more about how to apply the study activity model.
